From Nayakan to Ponniyin Selvan 2: Vetrimaaran calls Mani Ratnam 'the Sachin Tendulkar of Indian Cinema'

Filmmaker Vetrimaaran recently shared his admiration for legendary director Mani Ratnam, who completed 40 years in the Indian film industry. Vetrimaaran noted that he continues to be an inspiration for generations of filmmakers.

Vetrimaaran revealed that it was Ratnam's classic film Nayakan that inspired him to pursue a career in filmmaking. "I did not have the opportunity to watch Nayakan in theatres when it was released. But, I had a VHS tape, and I watched that film 47 times. I wanted to become a filmmaker to do a film that's as good as Nayakan or better than Nayakan," he said during a panel discussion at the CII Dakshin conference . 

Also Read: Ponniyin Selvan 2 review: Vikram, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan steal the show in Mani Ratnam's epic

Vetrimaaran also commended Ratnam's ability to connect with his audience and inspire future filmmakers. "Today a 15-year-old person will watch Ponniyin Selvan and wants to become a filmmaker. That's the kind of influence and impact that Mani sir has," he said.

Comparing Ratnam's influence to Sachin Tendulkar's impact on Indian cricket, Vetrimaaran praised Ratnam's courage and commitment to his craft. "I like Mani sir's courage. His courage to keep making films - 'see, you like it or not that's not a problem for me. If you don't like it, I start will afresh tomorrow.' Not everyone is as courageous as Mani sir in constantly making films. This (past) 40 years is not just his ability to connect his stories to the people, but also his courage and commitment to make films that he likes. And we should learn that courage from Mani sir," he said.

Ratnam made his directorial debut with the Kannada movie Pallavi Anu Pallavi in 1983. But, it was the 1986 romantic drama Mouna Ragam that put him on the map and he soon achieved an indomitable position in the Indian film industry with Nayakan (1987). The film, starring Kamal Haasan in the lead role, depicts the rise of a gangster against the backdrop of social and political upheaval that pushed even the most well-meaning people towards criminality. With its powerful storytelling and exceptional performances, Nayakan continues to be regarded as a landmark film in Indian cinema. 

Ratnam is now basking in the success of his most ambitious movie Ponniyin Selvan 2 . The movie was released on Friday to a packed house and glowing reviews and is expected to become of the highest-grossing movies in Tamil cinema.